Victims of Shakahola indulge in sex at rescue centers-DPP

By Robert Mutasi

The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions has expressed concern that 65 victims, who are key witnesses in a case facing preacher Paul Mackenzie, are engaging in sex at rescue centers.

The assistant to the director of public prosecutions, Yamina Jamii, informed the Senior Resident Magistrate of Shanzu, Joe Omide, that the government is facing significant challenges with unexpected pregnancies and cases of sexual harassment if the victims continue to be held at the rescue center.

"The victims have now fully recovered, are strong and have been reported to be having sex. They spend most of their time engaging in sexual activities, along with eating and freely socializing in their rooms," she said.

Jamii asked the court to order the victims to be moved from the rescue centers and taken to Shimo La Tewa prison, where they will be held in male and female rooms and their daily activities easily supervised.

The court was told that two of the survivors have mental problems and will be dealt with according to the law as soon as their families are found.

"We now ask the court to issue an order to take all the victims to prison to avoid a conflict that could arise. These victims were rescued from Shakahola forest in March this year after being alleged to have been indoctrinated into preacher Mackenzie's sect. When they were rescued, they were being forced to fast to hasten their deaths so they could meet Jesus.

"The government will have to deal with this even before they are turned into witnesses," she said.